Relugolix

Say it: rel-ue-GOE-lix · Brand names: Orgovyx

Relugolix is a hormone pill that lowers testosterone to slow the growth of prostate cancer.

What it is

Most prostate cancers need testosterone to grow. Relugolix blocks the brain signal that tells the testicles to make testosterone. It works quickly, and testosterone often goes back up within a few months after the pills are stopped.

Often used for

• advanced prostate cancer

How you get it

Relugolix is a pill you take by mouth once a day at about the same time. Some people take a larger first dose on day one. Your schedule may be different.

Common side effects and what helps

• Hot flashes. Dress in layers and keep cool drinks nearby.
• Feeling tired. Rest and short walks can help.
• Muscle or joint aches. Gentle stretching and warm baths may help.
• Constipation. Drink plenty of fluids and eat high fiber foods.
• Diarrhea. Drink plenty of fluids and tell your team if it does not get better.
• Higher blood sugar or blood fats. Your team will check these with blood tests.
• Less interest in sex or trouble getting an erection. It is okay to talk with your team about this.

Call your care team right away if you have

• A fast, pounding or uneven heartbeat, or feeling faint
• New chest pain or trouble breathing
• Diarrhea that is severe or does not stop
• Very high thirst, urinating a lot, or feeling very confused
• Swelling of the face, lips or throat, or hives

Before you start, tell your team

• If you have heart problems, including a heart rhythm problem called long QT
• If you have diabetes or high cholesterol
• All the medicines you take, including vitamins, herbs and supplements
• If your partner is pregnant or may become pregnant

Good to know

• Lowering testosterone can affect the heart rhythm. Your team may check a heart tracing (ECG) and blood salts.
• Some medicines can change how much relugolix is in your body. Check with your team before starting any new medicine.
• Relugolix can harm an unborn baby. Men with a partner who could become pregnant should use birth control during treatment and for 2 weeks after the last dose.
• Long-term low testosterone can thin your bones. Ask about bone health.

At home

• Take relugolix once a day, at about the same time, with or without food.
• Swallow the pills whole. Do not crush or chew them.
• If you miss a dose, ask your care team what to do. Do not take two doses to make up for it.
• Store at room temperature in the original bottle, away from children and pets.

Questions to ask

• What time of day should I take this pill?
• How will we know if it is working?
• Which of my other medicines could interact with it?
• What can I do about hot flashes?

Side effect guides

• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.